Political Interference Fueling Galamsey, Forestry Boss Warns
The Forestry Commission has warned that ongoing political meddling is weakening Ghana’s efforts to stop illegal mining, known locally as galamsey, and is hurting enforcement work. At a year‑end press briefing in Accra on Monday, December 15, 2025, the Commission’s CEO, Dr. Hugh C. A. Brown, said some politicians and regional officials are still interfering with operations and questioning enforcement teams when they move into areas without first being notified, even though the Commission has a legal role to protect forests and water sources. He stressed that the Forestry Commission should be allowed to carry out its work independently, free from political pressure, because interference can undo gains made in tackling galamsey and encourages those involved in illegal mining to continue their activities. Dr. Brown noted that galamsey remains a big threat to Ghana’s forests and rivers, and said inconsistent action by authorities only gives confidence to offenders. He called on political leaders to show real commitment to fighting illegal mining and to back enforcement agencies, saying strong political will and respect for the independence of institutions are critical to making lasting progress against the menace.
